AMA Supports Health System Reform Alternatives Consistent with Principles of Pluralism, Freedom of Choice, Freedom of Practice and Universal Access for Patients

For immediate release June 17, 2009

CHICAGO – As the American Medical Association (AMA) works for health reform this year that provides all Americans with affordable, high-quality health coverage, new policy states that the AMA “support health system reform alternatives that are consistent with AMA principles of pluralism, freedom of choice, freedom of practice, and universal access for patients.”

“The AMA is committed to health reform this year, and we are focused on ending our nation’s uninsured crisis,” said AMA Immediate-Past President Nancy H. Nielsen, MD. “We will stay engaged with Congress and the administration to ensure that health reform proposals meet the AMA’s criteria so that health reform makes a positive difference in the lives of our patients.”

“We welcome and will thoughtfully consider all proposals consistent with AMA principles to provide Americans with affordable, high-quality health coverage,” said Dr. Nielsen. “We look forward to the day when all Americans have health care coverage.”